| Location | Olympia, WA (Remote) |
| Salary | $52,872–$71,136 Per Year |
Medical Assistance Specialist 4 (MAS4/AHSO) - Internal
Salary
$52,872.00 - $71,136.00 Annually
Location
Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type
Agency Internal - Permanent
Remote Employment
Remote Optional
Job Number
2026-08752
Department
Health Care Authority
Division
AHSO
Opening Date
10/16/2026
Closing Date
10/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information
The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Medical Assistance Specialist 4 - Internal
This is a full-time permanent, remote position. Employees may occasionally be asked to attend an in-person meeting or event based on business needs.
This is an internal opportunity and is only open to current HCA employees.
All HCA employees are required to be Washington state residents upon their first day of employment.
The Opportunity
This position leads a team of medical assistance specialists handling pharmacy authorizations by assisting with complex questions, performing quality reviews, and training staff on processes and procedures. They also liaise with other departments, including attending meetings with clinical and other Apple Health staff.
Key Responsibilities
Why You'll Love This Role
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
Experience may have been gained through paid or unpaid activities. Please ensure any relevant experience defined below is outlined in your cover letter, resume, and application.
Required Competencies
Preferred Qualifications
While these are not required, having them may help you stand out as an applicant.
Six years of a combination of experience and/or higher education.
Bachelors degree = four years, associate degree = two years.
Experience is providing direct client services or counseling of customers in the areas of health insurance, disability, or other related health benefits; public assistance eligibility determination; health insurance premiums/claims processing, adjusting, and investigation; or other medical premiums/claims related experience.
Health Care Systems and Service Delivery - Demonstrated knowledge of health care organizations, delivery systems, and processes that support access to quality health care services.
Medicaid Knowledge - Demonstrated understanding of Medicaid, state-managed care programs, and factors impacting client access to quality health care services.
Client Complaint and Grievance Procedures - Demonstrated knowledge of client complaint and grievance procedures, including processes for addressing concerns and resolving service-related issues.
Medicaid Prior Authorization Requirements - Demonstrated ability to educate clients, providers, and staff regarding Medicaid prior authorization requirements, procedures, and processes for obtaining covered health care services.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills - Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively with individuals and groups, adapting communication styles to meet diverse audiences and organizational needs.
Staff Training and Leadership - Demonstrated ability to train, guide, and lead staff while modeling respectful behavior, encouraging collaboration, and promoting open and constructive communication.
About the Division
The Apple Health Services and Operations (AHSO) division works across the Health Care Authority (HCA) and in partnership with the health care community at a local, state, and federal level, in developing and managing high quality, evidence-based health care programs and purchase services that enhance Apple Health (Medicaid) clients ability to access appropriate, quality health care.
Supplemental Information
About the Washington State Health Care Authority
Better Health. Better Care. A Healthier Washington.
At HCA, we work to ensure people across Washington have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible. As the State's largest health care purchaser and behavioral health authority, HCA serves nearly 3 million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs, and behavioral health services. Through this work, HCA purchases and coordinates care coverage, supports behavioral health prevention, treatment, crisis response, and recovery and helps strengthen access to high-quality care across Washington.
More than a benefits package: We want our employees to have the support, flexibility, and benefits they need to do their best work and build a career that works for their life. As a Washington State HCA employee, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits are designed to support you today while helping you plan for the future. Learn more about why HCA by visiting the Voices of HCA and the "Who we are" section of our website.
Your total compensation is more than your paycheck:
Work location and schedule: This is a full-time 40-hour-per-week remote position. Our standard business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with alternative work schedules considered based on business needs and supervisor approval. In this role you will regularly collaborate with colleagues, agency leaders, state and federal partners, and other external partners or customers. Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training, or other business needs. All employees are required to report to our Olympia office on their first and final day of employment.
Our commitment to an inclusive workplace: The Health Care Authority is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a workplace where employees are respected, included, and supported in bringing their experiences, perspectives, and ideas to work. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in how we work together and serve the people of Washington. HCA also supports five voluntary employee led Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which create opportunities for connection, community, learning, and professional growth.
Application Directions
To be considered, you must complete the online application in full and submit all required materials. Incomplete applications or applications missing required materials will not be considered. When completing your application, please include the following required materials:
We encourage you to apply! If you meet the required qualifications for this position; we want to hear from you. Desired qualifications describe additional experience, knowledge or skills that may be helpful in the role, but they are not required to be considered for the position. We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences, identities, and perspectives.
Veterans: We value the experience and skill veterans bring to the workforce and encourage veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses to apply. Eligible veterans may qualify for veterans' preference in accordance with Washington State Law. If you are claiming veterans' preference, you must attach your applicable DD-214 documentation to your application. Please redact your social security number, date of birth, and any other sensitive information before uploading and attaching the document.
Need accommodations or have questions? If you have questions, need assistance with the application process, require an accommodation, or would like to request this posting in an alternative format, please contact Jake Nelko, human resources consultant - recruiter, at HCAjobs@hca.wa.gov and reference the recruitment title and job number in the subject line.
Technical support: Reach out to NEOGOV directly at 1-855-524-5627 for technical support and login issues.
The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an E-Verify employer. All applicants with a legal right to work in the United States are encouraged to apply.
E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
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More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
I acknowledge that I have included at least three references, and that I have uploaded a cover letter and resume in the attachments section of my application.
02
I acknowledge that this internal opportunity is only open to current HCA employees.
03
If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
04
Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?
05
How would you rate your ability to develop, deliver, or support formal training and provide coaching and technical instruction that promotes accurate and uniform application of program rules, policies, procedures, and requirements?
06
How would you describe your expertise in providing technical leadership, guidance, consultation, and support to staff and stakeholders regarding complex program requirements, policies, procedures, and work processes?
07
How would you describe your proficiency level in analyzing complex, unusual, or escalated program issues, evaluating relevant information and requirements, and developing accurate and well-supported determinations, recommendations, or solutions?
08
How would you describe your proficiency level in reviewing and evaluating work for accuracy, quality, and compliance; identifying errors, trends, or inconsistencies; and recommending improvements to ensure consistent application of program requirements?
09
Select which best describes your level of knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, policies, procedures, and program requirements applicable to complex medical assistance program issues and circumstances?
10
Select which best describes your level of knowledge of interpreting complex policies, regulations, and program requirements, evaluating their impact on program operations, and communicating appropriate guidance to staff and stakeholders?
Required Question
Employer State of Washington
Address View Job Posting for Agency Information
View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Website http://www.careers.wa.gov